It needs to be well written and targeted to the employer and vacancy. Remember, its aim is to get you an interview and possibly a job. Your covering letter will supplement your CV and must be tailored to the Job Description.
- Be clear, concise and to the point. Your letter should be no more that a single page.
- Highlight your key skills, strengths, experience and interests that you can bring to the role. It is important to be specific. Emphasise the qualifications, work experience, leadership, management, communication and problem solving skills you have that are required for the role. Use examples to demonstrate these.
- Why is the position and company of interest? You need to let the employer know why you are applying for this particular role to work for their company.
- Show your personality – enthusiasm, commitment and motivation are all key requirements employers’ are looking for so stress these qualities in your covering letter. Provide an example from your current or previous role of your biggest achievement to date.
- Check, check and check again! Pay attention to spelling and grammar, it will show you pay attention to detail and ensure your covering letter looks professional.
- State your current salary, notice period and availability for interview. It will also make it easier for the employer if you also provide your contact details (name, address, contact number and email address) on your covering letter as well as on your CV.
- If you are provided with the employers’ name – address your covering letter to that person and end Yours sincerely. If you do not have a contact name – address your letter to Dear Sir/Madam and end with Yours faithfully. It is a nice touch to thank the employer for their time in considering your CV and that you look forward to hearing from them.